These Easy Greek Ribs are a total crowd-pleaser! Baked until tender and then grilled for that tasty char, they are packed with delicious Greek flavors like garlic and oregano.
Seriously, what’s better than juicy ribs with a zesty twist? I love serving them with a side of fresh salad or pita bread—it’s a hit at every get-together!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Ribs: Baby back ribs are more tender and have more meat than spare ribs. However, if you’re looking for a more economical option, spare ribs work just as well. You can also try using beef ribs if you prefer.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a strong flavor to the marinade. If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder can be a substitute, but use less—about 1/2 teaspoon for every clove of fresh.
Herbs (Oregano & Thyme): Dried oregano captures a lot of the flavor and is essential in Greek cooking. If you don’t have oregano, consider using Italian seasoning as an alternative. Fresh herbs also work, just double the quantity.
Honey: Honey balances the tartness of lemon juice. If you need a vegan alternative, maple syrup can work well. Just remember, it will add a different flavor.
Tzatziki Sauce: This is perfect with ribs! If you’re short on time, store-bought tzatziki works fine. You can also use Greek yogurt mixed with cucumber and dill for a quick home version.
How Can I Make Sure the Ribs Are Extra Tender?
To achieve tender ribs, the key is to cook them slowly and at a low temperature. This process breaks down the connective tissues, making them easy to eat.
- Start by removing the membrane on the back of the ribs. This step enhances how the marinade penetrates and flavors the meat.
- Cover the ribs with foil when baking. This helps to trap moisture, keeping them juicy and tender.
- After baking, allow the ribs to rest for a few minutes before grilling. This helps retain juices when you cut into them.
- When grilling, keep the heat moderate to avoid burning. Baste them to add flavor and moisture during grilling.
Easy Greek Ribs Recipe (Baked Then Grilled)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2 lbs pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)
- Tzatziki sauce (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 3 hours overall—1 hour for preparation and marinating, followed by 2.5 to 3 hours of baking. The grilling adds an extra 15 minutes. You’ll have beautifully tender and flavorful Greek ribs ready to impress your friends and family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow method will help the ribs become tender and juicy.
2. Prepare the Ribs:
Next, you’ll want to remove the tough membrane on the back of the ribs to make them tastier and more tender. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels so the marinade sticks better!
3. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, thyme, paprika, cumin, salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and honey. Stir everything together until it’s well blended—this is the secret to flavorful ribs!
4. Marinate the Ribs:
Generously rub the marinade all over both sides of the ribs. Place the ribs in a baking dish, cover it tightly with foil, and pop them in the refrigerator. Let those flavors soak in for at least 1 hour, or overnight if you have the time for even more flavor!
5. Bake the Ribs:
Once marinated, put the covered ribs in the oven. Bake for about 2.5 to 3 hours. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re tender and the meat starts to pull away from the bones. The smell will be amazing!
6. Prepare the Grill:
While the ribs are baking, get your grill ready! Preheat it to medium-high heat so it’s hot and ready for that final, delicious grilling.
7. Grill the Ribs:
After baking, take the ribs out of the oven and remove the foil. Place them on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, basting once in a while with any leftover marinade. You want a nice caramelized finish that looks mouthwatering!
8. Serve the Ribs:
Once grilled to perfection, pull the ribs off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Slice between the bones and sprinkle with chopped parsley or dill for a fresh touch. Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce for dipping, and enjoy your delightful Greek-inspired ribs!
Happy cooking! Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Ribs?
Absolutely! While baby back or spare ribs work great, you can also use pork flank ribs or country-style ribs. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the thickness of the meat, so adjust as needed for tenderness.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you’d like to add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the marinade. Start with 1/4 teaspoon and adjust to your taste. You can also brush the ribs with a spicy barbecue sauce during the grilling phase for extra kick!
Can I Marinate the Ribs for Longer Than Overnight?
Yes, you can marinate the ribs for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor! Just ensure they are well-wrapped or stored in an airtight container in the fridge to prevent any cross-contamination with other foods.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them wrapped tightly in foil or in freezer bags for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in the oven or on the grill.
